Rowing FAQ's
1. How do I get started?
Visit the website here Emsworth Sailing Club, then find a row that you are able to do and book your place. If it's your first row, choose a social row and let the cox know via the WhatsApp group, ideally prior to the row or on the day, that you're new to rowing.
If you want to continue rowing, please follow the link to join the Emsworth Sailing Club Rowers WhatsApp group https://chat.whatsapp.com/KXbWuJwfuV70FlJJljupOg . This WhatsApp group is used for rowing announcements only (no chat), for chat, photos and all things rowing please join the "ESC Rowing Photos and other things" group.
2. Do I need any previous rowing experience?
No
3. How soon before a rowing session should I arrive at the Club?
Approximately 15 minutes before the start time to help prepare and launch the boat.
4. What should I wear?
Depending on the weather, leggings, waterproof shoes/socks. Lots of layers and a hat are recommended if it's cold.
5. How long are the sessions?
Usually approximately 1.5 hours, with breaks as necessary
6. How do I find more information about a row?
Reach out to the allocated cox via WhatsApp
7. If my plans change, how do I cancel my place on a row?
If you need to cancel a rowing booking, please do two things;
- cancel your booking on the website first. To do this, go to your booking, scroll to the right where you have the option to cancel
- post the cancellation on the Rowers WhatsApp group, giving the details below;
- Your name
- Date, time and type of row, e.g. training
- You must do both of these actions so that everyone is informed.
8. Do I need to do a duty? At present no, but the Club would very much like (and indeed needs) all members, particularly those involved in in-water activities, to volunteer for duties.
9. What is the difference between a social row and a training row?
A social row is less demanding and might include a stop for coffee/drink at a local pub, so is perfect for your first row. A training row is for the more experienced rowers who want to increase their heart rate and perhaps learn to race.
There are also endurance rows and performance rows. Endurance is consistent rowing with few/no breaks. Performance rows are for beginners and more experienced rowers who want to concentrate on developing their stroke technique.
10. Do I need wear a life jacket?
Whilst it is not compulsory to wear a life jacket, we do recommend wearing one on the pontoon and either wearing it or storing it under the seat when in the boat.
11. Do I need to bring drinks and snacks?
Water will suffice but if you want to, yes.
12. How do I get into a race crew?
When regattas are approaching, a message will come out asking if you're interested. Log your interest and you should get onto a crew.
13. Am I insured to row?
Yes, all Club-organised events and their attendees are covered by the Club's insurance, as long as you are following the guidelines and operating procedures.
14. What are the minimum and maximum ages for rowing?
At present the minimum age is 16 and there is no maximum age.
15. How do I become a cox?
Express your interest to one of the coxes once you have started rowing.
16. Can I row with mobility issues?
If you have mobility issues, come and watch a launch and it will give you a good idea, as only you can know your own capabilities. The boat is unstable when getting in and out. There are details regarding getting in and out of the boat in the comprehensive information below this Q&A. Please speak to your cox in advance if you have any issues. Whether the boat goes out (regarding weather and the ability of rowers) is at the discretion of the cox on the day.
17. Can the boat capsize?
It never has but it's a possibility.
18. Can a row be cancelled?
Yes, rows can be cancelled, usually because of the weather. The decision is made by the assigned cox, who will post the cancellation on the Rowers WhatsApp group.